Environmental applications of nanocrystalline metal oxides

NanoActive materials are metal oxide aggregates that possess very large surface areas, defect-rich morphology, large porosities, and small crystallite sizes. This combination of properties results in extremely high reactivity including both enhanced reaction kinetics and large capacities. These materials have shown utility in both consumer and military applications. Of particular importance is the destructive adsorption of various toxic and odorous compounds, air and water filtration, as well as removal of heavy metals and sulfur species. In addition, novel metal oxide formulations with the unique ability to neutralize toxic chemicals as well as biological organisms were developed. Several oxides have been shown to possess considerable biocidal activity against the opportunistic pathogens Staphylococcus aureus and Pseudomonas aeruginosa, with applications in antimicrobial paints and coatings. Consumer products based on these materials include chemical spill control systems and odor neutralization systems.